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TRIPOLI - The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) on Thursday highlighted the urgent need for action against explosive ordnance in Libya.

In a statement to mark the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, UNICEF Libya reflected on "on the shadows cast by conflict in Libya," stressing that "in 2023 alone, sadly the lives of nine children fell victim to explosive ordnance, highlighting an urgent need for action."

UNICEF Libya said that in collaboration with local partners, it has provided essential Explosive Ordnance Risk Education to 150,000 people via radio and printed materials in the most affected regions across Libya.

These initiatives are part of a broader effort to educate and protect, with 38,000 children receiving direct education on the risks posed by explosive remnants, the statement added.

Ever since the fall of late leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has been plagued by violence and unrest. The explosive ordnance left behind in military conflicts has become a major threat to the lives of the local population.